Product Dispensing System

ABSTRACT

A product dispensing system includes a housing that has a sidewall with at least one surface variation provided thereon. A dispensing opening is provided on a first side of the sidewall. A manual actuation button is provided on a second different side of the sidewall. A gripping force between about 25 N to about 40 N is utilized to hold the housing within a human hand without additional support.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable

REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

SEQUENTIAL LISTING

Not applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a product dispensing system,and more specifically, to a product dispensing system that is designedto dispense in both manual and automatic actuation modes and that hasvisual communication elements defined by one or more surface variations.

2. Description of the Background of the Invention

Rooms in homes, businesses and other locations, such as hotels,restaurants, locker rooms, and the like, frequently have an unpleasantor neutral odor that pervades throughout them. The smell of a room isdirectly tied to the experience that an individual perceives while beinglocated in the room. However, if the home or business employs anautomated dispensing system, the dispensing system may disperse theproduct at times that do not correlate to a user's visit or that do notaccount for an unexpected olfactory occurrence, e.g., a pet spendingtime in a room or garbage being left out for an extended period of time.Therefore, it is desirable to have a dispensing device capable ofdispersing a product on an automatic basis in the typical course of usewhile at the same time allowing manual actuation of the dispensingdevice at appropriate and specifically desired times, e.g., right beforea guest visits a home or business.

Bathrooms are particularly challenging rooms for homes and businesses tomaintain pleasant odors therein. Bathrooms are a common source ofunpleasant odors due to mildew and human waste, and individualsfrequently desire to remove the odor and/or mask the unpleasant odorwith a more desirable fragrance and/or odor neutralizer. A home orbusiness owner may desire to disperse a pleasant odor through thebathroom on an automated basis, while an individual who uses a bathroommay desire to actuate a dispensing device at some point before, during,or after using the bathroom. Frequently, individuals keep an automaticfragrance device, such as an exposed fragrance gel, in the bathroom thatis used to disperse a fragrance automatically on a continuous basis. Incontrast, other individuals keep a handheld dispensing device, such as adispensing device with a trigger, in the bathroom for manual actuationwhen it is desirable. Further, businesses or other commercial sitestypically use large wall mounted devices that only allow for theautomatic spraying of fluid. Regrettably, the dispensing devicesdesigned for use in bathrooms are not typically designed to provideautomated actuation over an ongoing basis while at the same timeallowing for a manual actuation boost on an as-needed basis.

Another common problem facing the rooms of homes and businesses is thecontrolling of pests, such as mosquitoes, ants, spiders and the like.Individuals frequently place a pest control device in a room with a pestissue and allow the device to disperse an insecticide or otherpest-control product on an automated basis. The automation of the deviceallows pests to be combated even if the individual is not present in theroom. On some occasions, individuals encounter pests directly and wishto spray them with the same pest-control dispensing device.Unfortunately, pest control devices typically have not been designed toeffectuate both automated actuation and manual actuation to accomplishboth goals of an individual eliminating pests by spraying the pestcontrol product directly on or near the pest and having the pest controldispensing device disperse product automatically. Therefore, it would bedesirable to have a pest control device that is designed toautomatically dispense, but can be easily and comfortably actuated whenan individual confronts a pest directly.

Dispensing devices using aerosol containers have been popular andcommonly used to store and dispense a product such as air fresheningagents, deodorants, insecticides, germicides, decongestants, perfumes,or any other known product. Actuation of an aerosol container typicallyincludes the manual or automatic displacement of a valve stem. Inautomated dispensing devices, conventional actuator mechanisms mayinclude motor driven linkages that actuate the valve stem to open anaerosol valve within the container. Other actuator mechanisms mayinclude solenoid valves that effect fluid dispensing from aerosolcontainers when energized. Many types of dispensers such as handsanitizers, fragrance dispensers, insecticide devices, and the like mayutilize any of the aforementioned actuator mechanisms.

Automated actuation systems operably attach to the container and valvestem in various ways. For example, some existing automated actuationsystems are contained within a housing unit, which is also adapted toreceive the container therein. These types of automated actuationsystems may include complicated and large camming mechanisms thatrequire a significant amount of space in the housing, which in turnrequires the housing to be larger. Automated actuation systems alsotypically include at least one button and/or switch that is designed tocontrol the operational parameters of an automated sequence.

Heretofore, dispensing devices have been designed and utilized as eithera manual dispensing device or an automated dispensing device, buttypically not as both. Automated dispensing devices do not require auser to actuate the valve stem and frequently use a timer, sensor, orother mechanism to control actuation. A drawback of automated devices ishabituation by the user to the substance being dispensed and a lack ofuser control to be able to provide a boost or increase of product asdiscussed in the various examples provided herein. In other cases, auser may want to increase the fragrance for other reasons, but is unableto provide immediate actuation using a dispensing device designed forautomatic actuation. A drawback of manually actuated dispensing devicesis that the devices are not capable of operating without humanintervention.

Even though some devices are physically capable of being used in bothmanual and automatic actuation modes, such devices typically are notdesigned for use in both operating conditions and/or suffer drawbacksrelated thereto. Some automated dispensing devices have tried to addressthe aforementioned problem by providing a manual actuation button.However, the manual actuation button has been typically provided onautomated dispensing devices in a location that is awkward, confusing,and non-intuitive. In particular, such buttons are typically provided onthe inside of a dispensing device or on a portion of the dispensingdevice, such as a lower third, in a location grasped by the user whenthe user holds the device (i.e., gripping area) during manual operationthereof. Manual actuation buttons disposed in a gripping area of thedevice frequently cause inadvertent actuation when a user grasps thedispensing device and accidentally presses the manual actuation button.

An additional obstacle with respect to existing actuation systems is thecontainment of the actuation mechanisms within bulky and cumbersomehousings. Such housings are difficult to grasp and hold, which can leadto the housing being improperly used. For example, the user mayinadvertently grasp the housing around an upper portion thereof adjacentan outlet orifice and the user's hand may contact the product during thespraying operation.

Further, manual actuation buttons disposed on the same surface oradjacent to a dispensing orifice of the device presents anotherchallenge. Namely, the user must grasp the device and position her handaround the device to reach the manual actuation button, while at thesame time orienting the device outwardly, such that the material issprayed away from the user through the dispensing orifice. Theaforementioned positioning is uncomfortable and awkward for many users.Additionally, due to the non-ergonomic nature of many of the knowndispensing devices, users are less likely to hold and use the product ona frequent basis due to hand strain. Still further, women between theages of 30 and 50 are the most common users of the aforementioned typesof dispensing devices and are, on average, able to sustain a grippingforce between about 25 N to about 35 N for a time period adequate tohold and spray the dispensing devices disclosed herein. Therefore, it isdesirable to provide a dispensing device that is comfortable for thetypical user to grasp and hold the dispensing device during use thereof.

Another drawback to existing actuation systems is that the devices maybe confusing for the user to operate. In particular, the user may findit difficult or non-intuitive in how to orient the housing properly forspraying. The propensity for improper orientation may be exacerbated insituations where there is a desire to omit written communicationelements for orienting the user so as to create an aestheticallypleasing housing that a user will keep out within plain view. A needtherefore exists to provide an aesthetically pleasing housing that userswill want to keep out in plain sight and that also provides an intuitivemeans to communicate the proper orientation of the housing to effectproper spraying.

Therefore, it is desirable to have a product dispensing device thatovercomes obstacles associated with prior art dispensing devices. Inparticular, it is desirable to provide a dispensing device that isspecifically designed to be used in both a manual actuation mode and anautomatic actuation mode. The design elements incorporated into thedispensing device address specific problems as discussed herein. Forexample, it is advantageous to locate control switches in locations thatdo not allow accidental actuation of the dispensing device. It isfurther advantageous to minimize the footprint of the housing of thedispensing system by using a vertically stacked caroming mechanism. Asmaller housing is not only visually pleasing, it provides for increasedease of actuation and saves money in manufacturing costs.

An additional benefit of the dispensing devices disclosed herein is thatthey are all-in-one actuation units that are capable of being displayedin a home or business at all times, i.e., always out, because of boththe aesthetic qualities of the dispenser and the communication elementsprovided thereon. In particular, a user can easily grasp and manuallyactuate the dispenser without leaving the room, even if the dispenser isoperating in an automatic dispensing state. The all-in-one aspect of thedispensing device eliminates the need for a user to keep two separatedevices in a single room and/or leave the room to search for a separatedispensing device when manual actuation is desired. Use of thedispensing devices disclosed herein also minimizes the number ofdispensing devices that a user must keep in their home or business.

The present disclosure provides a further solution to the above problemsthrough the use of one or more non-written communication elements on ahousing of a product dispensing device provided in the form of one ormore surface variations. The communication element(s) guides the user inproper handling and usage of the device in an intuitive way. Inparticular, the user should understand how to pick up the device andactuate it, at least in part by using the communication element(s) onthe device. The communication element(s) is preferably decorative aswell as informative so that the user is able to leave the device out inplain view within a home, office, or other setting. Indeed, thedecorative nature of the communication element(s) allows a user to feelcomfortable leaving the dispensing device out in the open in a room atall times, which saves a user the extra time and effort of having toobtain an additional dispenser when a different type of dispenser isdesired. The present disclosure also provides for an ergonomic housingin which a user's hand can comfortably grasp the housing withoutsignificant hand strain.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the invention, a product dispensing systemincludes a housing that has a sidewall with at least one surfacevariation provided thereon. A dispensing opening is provided on a firstside of the sidewall. A manual actuation button is provided on a seconddifferent side of the sidewall. A gripping force between about 25 N toabout 40 N is utilized to hold the housing within a human hand withoutadditional support.

According to a different aspect of the invention, a product dispensingsystem includes a housing having a sidewall with at least on surfacevariation thereon. A manual actuation button extends at least partiallythrough the sidewall. A dispensing opening is in the sidewall. Both thedispensing opening and the manual actuation button are provided withinan upper region of the housing.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a product dispensingsystem includes a housing having a sidewall with at least one surfacevariation thereon. A manual actuation button extends at least partiallythrough the sidewall and a dispensing opening is in the sidewall. Atleast one of the manual actuation button and the dispensing orifice hasa shape similar to the at least one surface variation.

According to another aspect of the invention, a product dispensingsystem includes a housing with a sidewall having a first communicationelement and a second communication element associated therewith. Thefirst communication element comprises a first surface variationrepresentative of a naturally occurring object and the secondcommunication element is at least one of a dispensing orifice or abutton, which is representative of a similar naturally occurring object.In a particular embodiment, the first communication element has acontrast in surface ornamentation between itself and an adjacent portionof the sidewall. In another embodiment, the first communication elementcomprises an orifice and a protrusion. In a different embodiment, aplurality of first communication elements are provided on the sidewallthat are representative of similar naturally occurring objects. In yetanother embodiment, each of the first communication elements comprise anorifice and protrusion.

According to still another aspect of the invention, a product dispensingsystem includes a housing with a sidewall having opposing front and rearsurfaces. A communication element formed by one or more surfacevariations on the front surface is provided in combination with at leastone communication element on the rear surface. In one embodiment. thecommunication element associated with the front surface comprises atleast one of a protrusion and orifice and the communication elementassociated with the rear surface comprises an actuation button. The atleast one protrusion and orifice contrast with an adjacent portion ofthe sidewall. In a different embodiment, the communication elementassociated with the front surface comprises a dispensing opening and thecommunication element associated with the rear surface comprises anactuation button. In a further embodiment, the one or more communicationelements associated with the front surface comprise a dispensing openingand at least one protrusion and the communication element associatedwith the rear surface comprises an actuation button.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front isometric view of a product dispensing system thatincludes a housing;

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the product dispensing system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded isometric view of the product dispensing system ofFIG. 1 showing a front portion of the housing, a rear portion of thehousing, a container, and a plate;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the product dispensing system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a front isometric view of the plate of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the plate of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the plate of FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the plate of FIG. 3;

FIG. 9A is a front isometric view of the front portion of the housingand plate of FIG. 3 providing a first visual contrast;

FIG. 9B is a front isometric view of the front portion of the housingand plate of FIG. 3 providing a second visual contrast;

FIG. 9C is a front isometric view of the front portion of the housingand plate of FIG. 3 providing a third visual contrast;

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the housing and plate ofFIG. 3 taken generally along the line 10-10 shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevational view of the product dispensing system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a rear side isometric view of the front portion of thehousing of FIG. 3 with the plate removed therefrom;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the front portion of the housing of FIG.12 with the plate attached thereto;

FIG. 14 is a front side isometric view of the rear portion of thehousing of FIG. 3;

FIG. 15 is a different isometric view of the rear portion of the housingof FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of the rear portion of the housing of FIG.14 further including a protective cover and batteries;

FIG. 17 is a partial front isometric view of the rear portion of thehousing of FIG. 16 with the protective cover removed for clarity andshowing a camming mechanism and circuit;

FIG. 18 is a front left side isometric view of the camming mechanism ofFIG. 17; and

FIG. 19 is a front right side isometric view of the camming mechanism ofFIG. 17.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent upon consideration of the following detailed description,wherein similar structures have similar reference numerals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-19 generally depict a product dispensing system 100 thatincludes a housing 102 and a container 104 disposed therein. Thecontainer 104 includes a product (not shown) that is adapted to bedispensed into the atmosphere. The housing 102 has a substantially solidsidewall 106 comprising a semi-circular front portion 108 that isattached to a similarly shaped rear portion 110. The front portion 108and rear portion 110 form a compartment 112 that encloses and holds thecontainer 104 in an upright position. The housing 102 may be opened toinsert and/or remove the container 104 from the housing 102 prior to andafter use, as will be explained in more detail below.

The sidewall 106 of the housing 102 extends upwardly from asubstantially flat lower surface 114 and terminates at a concave uppersurface 116. As best seen in FIG. 2, the sidewall 106 may becharacterized by a first region A disposed adjacent the lower surface114, a second region B disposed adjacent the upper surface 116, and athird region C disposed between the first and second regions A, B. Theregions A, B, C provide a relatively equal division of the housing 102into three regions about a longitudinal axis X. The sidewall 106 isbulbous and protrudes outwardly in the first region adjacent the lowersurface 114 before curving inwardly at an upper end thereof and throughthe second and third regions B, C in a substantially uniform manner. Thesidewall 106 has a substantially cylindrical shape throughout its entirelength about the longitudinal axis X between the lower surface 114 andthe upper surface 116.

The housing 102 is preferably ergonomic in shape to allow a user tocomfortably grasp the sidewall 106 without significant hand strain.Various design considerations, including the dimensions of the productdispensing system 100, contribute to the overall ergonomic shape of thehousing 102. The diameter of the housing 102 in regions A and/or C isdesigned to accommodate a user's hand in an ergonomic manner. Inparticular, a typical human hand is sized to form a C-shaped grasphaving an average radius dimension of about 70 mm. If the diameter ofthe housing 102 is too large, a user's hand cannot grasp the housing 102in a comfortable manner. Rather, the user's grasp is forced outwardlyand causes strain on interior muscles of the hand. In contrast, if thediameter of the housing 102 is too small, a user's hand extends aroundthe housing 102 too far and the user's fingers may overlap and/orinterfere with proper holding of the housing 102.

Therefore, the dimensions of the housing 102 encourage proper graspingand use of the product dispensing system 100. The housing 102 throughregions A and C includes a greatest diameter dimension of about 80 mm toabout 110 mm, more preferably about 90 mm to about 100 mm, and mostpreferably about 95 mm. Further, the housing 102 includes a smallestdiameter dimension within regions A and C of about 40 mm to about 80 mm,more preferably about 50 mm to about 65 mm, and most preferably about 55mm. However, in other embodiments any of the regions A-C may have anysize or shape to accomplish various aesthetic or functionalconsiderations.

A gripping force of about 25 N to about 40 N is required to grasp andhold the housing 102 during use. The gripping force needed to hold thehousing 102 is dependent on various factors including the weight of theproduct dispensing system 100, the circumference of the housing 102, thelocation in which the user grasps the housing 102, the friction betweenportions of the housing 102 and a user's hand, and various otherfactors. The gripping force is selected to balance the force needed tohold the housing 102 without slippage and to provide an ergonomic handposition for the user. Although an average gripping force is providedherein, it should be recognized that a greater or lesser gripping forcemight be required depending on the factors discussed herein.

Returning again to FIG. 2, the lower surface 114 optionally includes aplurality of feet 118 extending downwardly therefrom that are adapted tocontact a support surface (not shown) such as a table, counter, or thelike to position the product dispensing system 100 in an uprightposition. The upper surface 116 is concave and includes a circularorifice 120 disposed therethrough. A button 122 extends out of thecompartment 112 and protrudes upwardly through the orifice 120. Thebutton 122 is part of a latching mechanism that holds the front portion108 and the rear portion 110 of the housing 112 together, the individualcomponents of which will be explained in more detail hereinbelow.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, an elongate substantially oval opening124 is formed in the sidewall 106 of the housing 102 of the productdispensing system 100. The opening 124 is disposed in the second regionB of the sidewall 106, i.e., the upper third of the housing 102. Theopening 124 extends through the entirety of the sidewall 102 andprovides an outlet for fluid to be dispensed from the container 104 andmay be otherwise referred to as a dispensing opening or a product sprayopening. When a spray head 126 of the container 104 is depressed,product is dispersed through the opening 124 and into the surroundingatmosphere. It is preferred that the spray head 126 be disposed adjacentthe opening 124, as depicted in FIG. 2, so as to allow product to escapetherefrom and minimize the amount of product that may be dispensed oninternal portions of the housing 102. In another embodiment, the opening124 is provided in a different shape, such as square, circular,rectangular, and the like, and may be disposed on any portion of thehousing 102. In another embodiment, the opening 124 is a communicationelement, or has the appearance of one, and is provided in a shape thatis associated with and/or forms part of a representation or group ofcommunication elements, as discussed hereinbelow.

Various components associated with the housing 102 of the productdispensing device 100 comprise and/or are a part of a group ofcommunication elements. “Communication element” as used herein, relatesto a means for communicating some form of information to a user.Communication elements are one or more surface variations (explained inmore detail hereinbelow) that work alone or in combination with eachother to provide guidance to a user as to how to set-up, hold, orient,spray, and/or otherwise use the dispensing device in its intendedmanner. It is envisioned that a plurality of surface variations orcommunication elements may provide a pattern or representation thateffects this outcome. Non-limiting examples include: one or moresurfaces on a dispensing device that comprise similar shapes and/orcolors to form a pattern that is familiar to a person using the device,one or more surfaces that are sized to encourage a user to grasp thedispensing device in a particular location, and/or one or more surfacesthat relate to each other to provide information and/or other guidanceto the person using the dispensing device. As presently used, acommunication element does not comprise letters, words, numbers, orother forms of known written communication.

“Intended Manner” as used herein, relates to a user operating a productin the common, ordinary course of operation as it is intended to beused. Non-limiting examples of such include grasping a dispensing devicein an appropriate grasping area (i.e., with a hand not obstructing adispensing orifice), orientating a dispensing orifice away from one'sself during a spraying operation, and the like.

The housing 102 of the product dispensing device 100 preferably includesone or more surface variations that form one or more communicationelements. “Surface variation” as used herein, relates to an actualsurface irregularity associated with a dispensing device or gives theperception of such an irregularity. For example, if the surfaceirregularity is visual in nature, the surface irregularity isperceivable to a person having average vision as viewed from a distanceof approximately 0.5 meters. If the surface irregularity is tactile innature, the surface irregularity is perceptible to the touch of anindividual over the age of 12 having average and functional nervous andtactile receptors. A surface variation, at a minimum, is one portion ofa surface in a first state and a second portion of an adjacent surfacein a state different from the first state so as to provide a contrastbetween the surfaces. The contrast may be communicated to the personvisually, physically, or using one or more of the senses includingthrough hearing, sight, touch, smell, and the like. The first and secondportions of the surface may comprise one overall surface and/or may bediscrete surfaces. Surface variations include, but are not limited to:color differences between the portions; height differences between theportions, such as one portion being recessed, protruded, or otherwiseoffset from the second portion; pattern differences such as one portioncomprising a pattern and a second portion comprising a different patternor no pattern at all; and textural differences such as one portioncontaining one material with a specified tactile feel and the secondportion containing the same material with a different tactile feel or adifferent material with a different tactile feel.

A further embodiment of a surface variation is a material that gives theimpression or illusion of a surface irregularity. For example, adispensing device may include a surface variation in the form of a coveror wrap applied to the first and/or second surface with markings thatgive the perception of a surface variation visually or through tactilefeedback. One or more surface variations described herein may be usedalone or in combination with each other, and/or in combination withopenings, and/or buttons on the dispensing device to form communicationelements. Further, one or more types of surface variations may be usedin combination with each other. For example, a first portion of thesurface may comprise both a visual and a textural difference from asecond portion. It is contemplated that any other modification to adispensing device that is an actual or perceived surface irregularity isincluded in this definition.

In one embodiment depicted in FIG. 12, surface variations are providedin the form of one or more orifices 130 in combination with one or moreprotrusions 132. The housing 102 includes the plurality of orifices 130extending through the sidewall 106. The orifices 130 are concentratedmost predominately within the third or central region C of the housing102. In the embodiment presently depicted, each orifice 130 is shapedlike a leaf. In alternative embodiments, other decorative shapes may beutilized. In particular, orifices 130 in the shape of naturallyoccurring objects are preferable. The orifices 130 form a distinctivevisual pattern of communication elements and are designed to receivesimilarly shaped protrusions 132 that extend partially therethrough. Inone embodiment, the protrusions 132 are integral with the housing 102.In a different embodiment, the protrusions 132 are provided on aseparate structure that is disposed within the compartment 112. In yetanother embodiment, the protrusions 132 give the appearance of extendingthrough the orifices 130, but are positioned therebelow and/or are asubstantially flat and uninterrupted surface adjacent or within theorifices 130. In still another embodiment, one or more surfacevariations may be provided on the housing as a flat surface thatcontrasts with an adjacent surface. Indeed, the surface variations maybe provided to the housing 102 in any form that provides a physical orvisual contrast consistent with the definition provided herein.

In one embodiment, the separate structure disposed within thecompartment 112 is a plate 134 (see FIGS. 5-8), which is designed to beattached to an interior surface 136 of the front portion 108 of thehousing 102. The plate 134 includes a curved body 138 defined by a rearsurface 140 and an opposing front surface 142. An orifice 144 extendsthrough the body 138 that is complementary in shape to the opening 124of the housing 102. The body 138 further includes a plurality of smallercylindrical openings 146 that correspond to cylindrical posts 148 thatextend outwardly from the interior surface 136 of the front portion 108of the housing 102. In one embodiment, the plate 134 is held to thehousing 102 when the posts 148 are disposed within the openings 146. Ina different embodiment, the plate 134 is heat staked or otherwiseattached to the housing 102, with or without the use of the openings 146and posts 148. In still a different embodiment, the plate 134 is anintegral piece of the housing 102. In other embodiments, the plate 134may be attached to the housing 102 in an interference fit relationship,using slots and corresponding protrusions, using an adhesive, or viaother attachment methods. The plate 134 may be permanently secured tothe housing 102, partially removable and/or adjustable with respect tothe housing 102, and or removable. For example, in another embodiment,the plate 134 is removable and/or interchangeable such that a user isable to adjust the visual contrast provided by the communicationelements and/or omit the plate 134 all together.

The surface variations, including orifices 130 and/or protrusions 132,(otherwise referred to as communications element(s)) may be shaped in avariety of complementary and/or non-complementary manners. In oneembodiment, the surface variations are shaped like an element of natureor naturally occurring object, such as branches, flowers, grass, rocks,trees, and the like. In another embodiment, the surface variations formdifferent visual patterns by using various geometric shapes. In theembodiment depicted, six orifices 130 extend through the sidewall 106 ofthe housing 102 of the product dispensing system 100 and sixcorresponding protrusions 132 extend at least partially into theorifices 130. It is contemplated that one or more orifices 130 may bedisposed in the sidewall 106 and one or more complementary protrusions132 extend from the plate 134. In another embodiment, the protrusions132 may be integral with the housing 102 and not disposed on a separatestructure such as the plate 134. It is also contemplated that theprotrusions 132 may comprise a portion of the plate 134 or otherstructure that is viewable through the orifices 130, regardless ofwhether the plate 134 or other structure is provided with portions thatextend therefrom. The portion of the plate 134 or other structureconstituting the protrusion 132 could be uninterrupted, planar, flat,include a depression, or only provided with a different texture, surfacefinish, or color than a portion of the housing 102. Indeed, theprotrusion 132 may be inclusive of any structure viewable through theorifices 130. In these embodiments, the user perceives that somestructure is extending through or otherwise obstructs, fully orpartially, the orifice 130, which constitutes a protrusion 132 forpurposes of the present disclosure.

The surface variations are designed to create a visual or physicalcontrast with and/or on a portion of the sidewall 106 of the housing102. The visual contrast may be created in a variety of ways. In oneembodiment depicted in FIG. 9A, the visual contrast is defined by theprotrusions 132 being characterized by a first color and the sidewall106 being characterized by a second color that is different from thefirst color. In one embodiment, the color difference is generated by thesurface having different color materials incorporated therein. Inanother embodiment, the color difference is created by illuminating oneor more portions of the surface variation(s). For example, one or moreprotrusions 132 and/or other surface variations may be illuminated usingone or more lights disposed within or associated with the housing. Theillumination may be decorative and/or may be used as a communicationelement. In particular, the illumination may indicate a status of theproduct dispensing system 100 such as, for example, a low battery,refill indicator, and/or current or imminent spray status.

In a different embodiment shown in FIG. 9B, the visual contrast isdefined by the surface variation (e.g., protrusions 132) having asurface finish different from a surface finish of the sidewall 106. Forexample, the sidewall 106 may have a smooth contour and the protrusions132 may include a textured surface such as a ridge, bump, or otherraised and/or depressed portion. In a different embodiment depicted inFIG. 9C, the visual contrast is defined by the protrusions 132 extendingpartially into the orifices 130 such that a gap 150 (see FIG. 10) iscreated between an outer surface 152 of the sidewall 106 and an outersurface 154 of the protrusions 132. The gap 150 is created when theouter surface 154 of the protrusion 132 is spaced from the outer surface152 of the sidewall 106 so that the outer surfaces 152, 154,respectively, are not flush with each other. It is contemplated that oneor more of these surface variations may be used in conjunction with eachother, e.g., a protrusion 132 may have a color different from the colorof the sidewall 106 and may include a surface irregularity.

Turning to FIG. 3, the orifices 130 include a length dimension Lmeasured between opposing ends of the orifices 130 between about 10 mmto about 75 mm, more preferably between about 30 mm to about 60 mm, andmost preferably about 45 mm. The orifices 130 also include a widthdimension W as measured perpendicular to the length dimension of betweenabout 5 mm to about 50 mm, more preferably between about 20 mm to about30 mm, and most preferably about 25 mm. The orifices 130 further includea depth dimension D (see FIG. 10) measured from an outer surface 152 ofthe sidewall 106 adjacent a distal end of a curved edge to an outersurface 154 of the protrusions 132 between about 0.1 mm to about 25 mm,more preferably between about 5 mm to about 15 mm, and most preferablyabout 10 mm.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7, the protrusions 132 include a lengthdimension L′ measured between opposing ends of the protrusions 132between about 10 mm to about 75 mm, more preferably between about 30 mmto about 60 mm, and most preferably about 45 mm. The protrusions 132also include a width dimension W′ as measured perpendicular to thelength dimension of between about 5 mm to about 50 mm, more preferablybetween about 20 mm to about 30 mm, and most preferably about 45 mm. Theprotrusions 132 further include a height dimension H (see FIG. 6)measured from the front surface 142 of the plate 134 to the outersurface 154 of the protrusion 132 that is between about 0.1 mm to about25 mm, more preferably between about 5 mm to about 15 mm, and mostpreferably about 10 mm. It should also be understood that theprotrusions 132 are preferably sized to be substantially the same sizeor smaller than the orifices 130 to allow for effective insertiontherein.

As best seen in FIGS. 1-4, the housing 102 further includes a surfacevariation provided in the form of a plurality of annular grooves 160extending therearound within the first region A. The grooves 160 areprovided as decorative features and may complement and/or work inconjunction with the pattern formed by other surface variations (e.g.,the orifices 130) to act as a group of communication elements. In theembodiment depicted, the grooves 160 are provided as branches andfurther include a straightened portion 162 that extends upwardly betweenthe orifices 130 to form a natural visual impression. Any number ofgrooves 160 may be optionally provided in the sidewall 106. The grooves160 preferably provide tactile and/or visual indication of anappropriate gripping location for a user to grasp the housing 102 of theproduct dispensing system 100, as will be explained in more detailhereinbelow.

Now turning to FIG. 11, the housing 102 includes a substantially roundedtear-drop shaped hole 170 disposed in the rear portion 110 thereofadjacent the upper surface 116. The hole 170 extends through theentirety of the sidewall 106 and is designed to receive a similarlyshaped manual actuation boost button 172. In one embodiment, the button172 is preferably disposed in the second region B adjacent the uppersurface 116 so as to prevent accidental actuation when a consumer graspsthe product dispensing system 100. In a different embodiment, the button172 is disposed on a side surface of the housing 102. The button 172, inconjunction with the other surface variations such as grooves 160 and/ororifices 130, may form part of the communication elements provided bythe product dispensing system 100. In a different embodiment, the button172 is omitted. The button 172 is electrically connected to a circuitboard 174, which is disposed within the compartment 112 (see FIG. 17).

In one preferred embodiment, an upper end of the button 172 is spacedfrom the lower surface 114 of the housing 102 a distance of about 100 mmto about 140 mm along the sidewall 106. In a different or the sameembodiment, the upper end of the button 172 is spaced from an upper endof a gripping region, e.g., an upper end of region A or a portion ofregion C, a distance of about 84 mm to about 104 mm. Placement of thebutton 172 in such a manner facilitates easy actuation of the button 172by one or more fingers of a user. Further, grasping the housing 102 sothat the palm of the user is adjacent the rear portion 110 of thehousing 100 in regions A and/or C allows for easy manual activation ofthe dispensing system 100 when the button 172 is similarly positioned onthe rear portion 110 and/or a side portion of the housing 102. Inanother embodiment, the button 172 is provided as part of the group ofcommunication elements formed by the opening 124 and/or protrusions 132.In order for the button 172 to be considered part of the pattern formedby one or more communication elements on the housing 102, i.e. theorifices 130 and protrusions 132, the boost button 172 preferably has asimilar shape to that of one or more of these communication elements onthe housing 102 and/or is associated therewith in some other manner,e.g., as part of a nature scene, part of a similarly related elementsuch as a branch or leaf, and the like.

With reference to FIGS. 13 and 16, the button 122 extends inwardly intothe housing 102 and is attached to the interior surface 136 of the frontportion 108 of the housing 102 via a flexible L-shaped member 180. Thebutton 122 includes a tongue 182 extending outwardly therefrom. Thetongue 182 has a raised hook member 184 designed to releasably interactwith a corresponding ridge 186 (see FIG. 15) disposed on the rearportion 110 of the housing 102.

As best seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the front portion 108 of the housing102 includes opposing brackets 188 adjacent a lower surface 190 of thecompartment 112. The brackets 188 include circular holes 192 disposedtherein that are adapted to receive posts 194 extending from the rearportion 110 of the housing 102. As depicted in FIG. 15, the posts 194extend inwardly from opposing flanges 196 disposed on an underside 198of a platform 200. When the posts 194 of the rear portion 110 arepositioned within the holes 192 of the front portion 108, the frontportion 108 of the housing 102 rotates about the posts 194 into an openor closed position. The button 122, in conjunction with the posts 194and holes 192, form the latching mechanism. In particular, in the closedposition the hook member 184 interacts with the ridge 186 to releasablyhold the front and rear portions 108, 110 together to form a unitaryhousing 102. When a downward force is applied to the button 122, thehook member 184 disengages from the ridge 186 and the front portion 108of the housing 102 may be rotated away from the rear portion 110 of thehousing 102. In this way, a user may access the compartment 112 for avariety of functions that will be explained in more detail below.

With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, in the closed position a portion ofthe platform 200 rests on two elongate ribs 202 that extend upwardlyfrom the lower surface 190 of the housing 102. The ribs 202 are disposedside-by-side and include a gap 204 therebetween. The ribs 202 are spacedinteriorly of the brackets 188.

Turning to FIGS. 14-16, the platform 200 includes a plurality ofrectilinear members 210 circumscribing an upper surface 212 thereof. Therectilinear members 210 are oriented to act as a retention mechanismwhen the container 106 is disposed on the platform 200. A base 214 ofthe container 106 contacts the rectilinear members 210 when thecontainer 106 is inserted into the housing 102. A plurality ofstabilizing ribs 216 extend from and circumscribe the interior surface136 of the front portion 108 (see FIGS. 12 and 13) and an interiorsurface 218 of the rear portion 110 (see FIGS. 14-16) of the housing102. The stabilizing ribs 216 include outer edges 220 that correspond tothe contour of the container 106 and assist in retaining the container106 in an upright position.

FIG. 16 depicts a power source of the product dispensing system 100,which in the present embodiment is provided in the form of batteries230. The batteries 230 are disposed within a retaining structure 232that extends inwardly from the rear portion 110 of the housing 102.Although batteries 230 are depicted, it is contemplated that any knownpower sources may be utilized, e.g., the power source may be a standardwall outlet accessed by a plug on the housing 102 or a cord and plugextending from the housing 102 (not shown).

Now turning to FIGS. 14-19, various components related to the operationof the product dispensing system 100 will be described with greaterparticularity. The components are enclosed within a protective cover 240(see FIG. 16). The protective cover 240 includes a substantiallyV-shaped body 242 that corresponds to the contour of the sidewall 106 ofthe housing 102 and terminates at a horizontal sidewall 244 (see FIG.15). The sidewall 244 extends across the rear portion 110 of the housing102 and provides structural support to the components within theprotective cover 240. The L-shaped member 180 of the button 122 rests ina recess 245 (see FIG. 16) in an upper surface 246 of the protectivecover 240. The protective cover 240 further includes a U-shaped cutout248 disposed adjacent the horizontal sidewall 244 and an opening 250therein. The opening 250 is preferably sized to receive the spray head126 of the container 106.

As best seen in FIG. 17, the circuit board 174 and an actuationmechanism are disposed within the protective cover 240. In the presentembodiment, the actuation mechanism comprises a camming mechanism 252.The camming mechanism 252 is electrically connected to the circuit board174 and associated microcontroller, which receives power from thebatteries 230. The circuit board 174 is further electrically connectedto the manual actuation button 172 and a switch 254.

With reference to FIG. 16, the switch 254 extends through an opening inthe protective cover 240 to provide easy access thereto. The circuitboard 174 translates the switch mode that is selected by the user intothe appropriate actuation sequence of the camming mechanism 252. In oneembodiment, the switch 254 includes a variety of timing sequences and/oroperating conditions that may be selected by the user. For example, onesuch timing sequence allows the user to set a preset dispensing intervalso the product dispensing device 100 dispenses automatically atspecified intervals. The intervals may be preset for any amount of time,but one such preset sequence allows the user to select between an “OFF”function and 9, 18, and 36 minute intervals.

Now turning to FIGS. 17-19, the camming mechanism 252 is shown within anupper portion of the compartment 112. The camming mechanism 252 isprovided in mechanical association with a drive motor 256 and areduction gear train 258. The gear train 258 is mounted on a front side260 of a gear plate 262 and the drive motor 256 is mounted on a rearside 264 of the gear plate 262.

The drive motor 256 includes a first pinion gear 266, which meshes witha drive gear 268. The drive gear 268 includes a second pinion gear 270(see FIG. 19) that is rotatable about an axle 272. The second piniongear 270 of the drive gear 268 meshes with an idler gear 274. The idlergear 274 includes a third pinion 276 that is rotatable about an axle278. The third pinion gear 276 of the idler gear 274 meshes with a levergear 280. The drive, idler, and lever gears 268, 274, 280, respectively,are disposed on the gear plate 262. The axles 272 and 278 are moldedextrusions extending from the gear plate 262.

The lever gear 280 includes rounded actuating arms 282 a, 282 bprotruding outwardly from opposing sides thereof. When the lever gear280 is rotated by the gear train 258 and the drive motor 256 in aclockwise direction as shown by arrow R (see FIG. 18), the actuating arm282 a of the lever gear 280 is rotated downwardly and contacts the sprayhead 126. Conversely, when the lever gear 280 is rotated in acounter-clockwise direction, the rounded arm 282 is rotated upwardlytoward a pre-actuation position.

The lever gear 280 is rotated a pre-specified distance to a dischargeposition such that a valve stem 304 of the container is depressed andthe valve assembly is opened, thereby allowing discharge of productthrough the spray head 126. The particular rotational distance isselected to coincide with a partial or full depression of the valve stem304. Fully depressing the valve stem 304 releases either a full metereddischarge or a continuous discharge of the container contents, whilepartially depressing the valve stem 304 results in a partial metered orpartial continuous discharge of the container contents. Preferably,although not necessarily, the actuating arm 282 a is held in thedischarge position for a length of time (referred to hereinafter as a“spraying period”). The duration of the spraying period could rangeanywhere from a fraction of a second to one or more seconds. At the endof the spraying period, the drive motor 256 is deenergized and theactuating arm 282 a returns to the pre-actuation position and terminatesfurther spraying. In one embodiment, the drive motor 256 is activated todrive in a counter-clockwise direction to assist in returning the levergear 280 to a pre-operative position.

Referring again to FIG. 3, the product dispensing system 100 is designedto be used with a container 106 having the spray head 126. In oneembodiment, the container 106 comprises a substantially cylindrical body300 extending from the base 214. The body 300 includes a mounting cup302 crimped to an upper end thereof. A valve stem 304 extends upwardlyfrom the mounting cup 302. The valve stem 304 is fluidly connected to avalve body (not shown) and a valve spring (not shown) disposed withinthe container 106. The spray head 126 is disposed on a distal end of thevalve stem 304.

In use, the product dispensing system 100 is adapted to release aproduct from the container 106 upon the occurrence of a particularcondition. The condition could be the manual activation of the cammingmechanism 252 via the button 172 or the automatic activation of thecamming mechanism 252 in response to an electrical signal from theswitch 254. The product discharged may be a fragrance or insecticidedisposed within a carrier liquid, a deodorizing liquid, or the like. Theproduct may also comprise other actives, such as sanitizers, airfresheners, odor eliminators, mold or mildew inhibitors, insectrepellents, and/or the like, and/or that have aromatherapeuticproperties. The product alternatively comprises any solid, liquid, orgas known to those skilled in the art that may be dispensed from acontainer. It is also contemplated that the container may contain anytype of pressurized or non-pressurized product and/or mixtures thereof.The product dispensing system 100 is therefore adapted to dispense anynumber of different products.

During actuation, the product dispensing system 100 includes a cammingmechanism 252 having an actuation force between about 1.5 Kg/min toabout 2.8 Kg/min, more preferably between about 1.8 Kg/min to about 2.5Kg/min, and most preferably about 2 Kg/min, as determined when thecaroming mechanism 252 has a power supply of about 3.2 V. The activationforce ensures that the actuating arm 282 a has enough downward force todepress the spray head 126 to release the desired amount of product.During actuation, movement of the spray head 126 may be characterized bya vertical actuation stroke. The spray head 126 preferably has avertical actuation stroke of between about 4 mm to about 12 mm, morepreferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, and most preferably about 8 mm.

The product dispensing system 100 may be further characterized by theduration of the spray function, i.e., the time it takes to dispenseproduct from the spray head 126. Product is dispensed from the sprayhead 126 at a time of between about 0.1 seconds to about 2 seconds, morepreferably between about 0.8 seconds to about 1.3 seconds, and mostpreferably about 1 second. In one embodiment, approximately 90microliters of product is dispensed during the spray function. In adifferent embodiment more than 90 microliters of product is dispensedduring the spray function. In yet a different embodiment, less than 90microliters of product is dispensed during the spray function.

The product dispensing system 100 is also aesthetically pleasing tousers and has numerous features that assist a user in proper operationof the system. For example, the product dispensing system 100 isaesthetically pleasing due to the slender nature of the housing 102 andthe pattern of communication elements (i.e., surface variations)incorporated therein. The communication elements of the productdispensing system 100 may also serve other useful purposes, such asinstructing the user as to proper hand position before and duringactuation, assisting a user's gripping of the system through frictionalforces, assisting the user's gripping of the system by placement of oneor more fingers within one or more communication elements, andinstructing a user on proper system positioning and/or orientationwithout the need for intrusive instructions.

One particular feature of the product dispensing system 100 that assistsa user in effective use thereof is the positioning of the manualactuation button 172 on the rear portion or side portion of the housing102 away from a similar side as the opening 124 that spray is emittedthrough. Such a positioning of the button 172 has the advantage ofminimizing accidental actuation of the button 172 when a user grasps thehousing 102.

The communication elements further provide a guiding feature so a userunderstands how to grasp the housing 102 in an orientation that allows auser to immediately discern the location of the opening 124 and positiontheir hand accordingly to effectively grasp the housing 102. Further,such an orienting function also assists the user in avoiding any contactwith the housing 102 adjacent the opening 124 to avoid product beingdispensed onto their hand and/or any residual product that may be on thehousing 102 adjacent the opening 124.

The communication elements and/or portions of the housing 102 furtherprovide a textured surface that the user grasps to assist the user inretaining the housing 102 in a preferred orientation. In particular, thegrooves 160 circumscribe the housing 102 in region A, which is thepreferred area for hand placement when a user grasps the productdispensing system 100. The depth of the grooves 160 provide a texturedcontrast with the adjacent surface of the housing 102 so a user's handcan easily discern the proper hand placement without visually inspectingthe dispensing system 100. The grooves 160 further assist a user inholding the product dispensing system 100 due to friction created whenportions of a user's fingers are provided adjacent the grooves 160.Further, orifices 130 and/or protrusions 132 within regions A and/or Cmay also assist a user in gripping the housing 102 in a similar manneras discussed above. Indeed, the orifices 130 and/or protrusions 132 mayhave the added benefit of allowing a user to insert one or more fingersinto one of the orifices or protrusions to gain a better grip of thehousing.

A user is further assisted in grasping the product dispensing system 100by the dimensions of the housing 102. The tapering cross-sectional widthof the housing provides an ergonomic gripping surface that conforms tothe contour of a user's palm and/or fingers when gripping the housing102. The circumference of the housing 102 is selected to be ergonomicand comfortable for the majority of adult hands that will grasp theproduct dispensing system 100. It is also contemplated that the housingmay be provided with a uniformly cylindrical housing, a housing thattapers outwardly from a lower end to an upper end, or a housing that hasvarying tapering portions. Indeed, such variations may also be providedin non-cylindrical housings as well.

The communication elements further provide a guiding function due to thepattern formed thereby. For example, in the embodiment depicted, thegrooves 160 give the impression of roots at the base of a plant, with amain branch (i.e., straightened portion 162) extending therefrom. Theorifices 130/protrusions 132 form leaves extending from the branch androots. The pattern formed by the communication elements invokes afamiliar object (i.e., a plant) to the user. In turn, the familiarobject guides the user to position their hand in a similar way aroundthe dispensing system 100 in the same way that a user would grasp aplant. Indeed, a user would intuitively grasp a plant around its base asopposed to grasping the leaves or branches. Although the communicationelements are depicted in the form of a plant, it is envisioned thatother representations using the same methodology could be incorporatedinto the product dispensing system 100 to evoke familiarity with respectto proper hand placement.

For example, other plant shapes with roots, stems, and/or leaves couldbe utilized. In one embodiment, a cactus is portrayed, in which therepresented prickly portions may suggest to a user to avoid that area.In a different embodiment, the housing takes on the characteristic of anatural setting of nature, which includes portions that intuitivelysuggest avoidance by a user and other areas that suggest a safe,comforting, or preferable placement of a user's hand based onimpressions of such a setting in nature. Other natural objects such asliving creatures may be represented. Further, inanimate naturallyoccurring objects such as rocks may be utilized. Indeed, othernon-natural representations may be used insofar that a portion of therepresentation suggest that a user should grasp it and another differentportion of the representation suggests that the user should avoidgrasping it.

A further advantage of the product dispensing system 100 is theincorporation of the opening 124 into the communication elementsdescribed herein. The shape of the opening 124 has a relationship to thepattern of the other communication elements. For example, in theembodiment depicted, the opening 124 is provided in the shape of a leaf.The shape of the opening 124 is substantially similar to the otherleaves (i.e., orifices 130/protrusions 132), which allows the opening124 to blend in with the other communication elements. It is envisionedthat the shape of the opening 124 could be other shapes and sizesconsistent with the disclosure herein.

Although specific numbers of surface variations such asprotrusions/orifices/grooves have been described with respect to theembodiments presented herein, it is contemplated that any number, shape,and size of surface variations can be utilized. Further, reference hasbeen made throughout to multiple surface variations that do notnecessarily need to be equidistant, symmetrical or similar in sizeand/or shape.

Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include anyof the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection withdifferent embodiments. Further, the present disclosure is not limited toaerosol containers of the type specifically shown. Still further, theproduct dispensing system may be modified to work with any type ofaerosol or non-aerosol container.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

Numerous modifications to the present invention will be apparent tothose skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description.Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative onlyand is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art tomake and use the invention and to teach the best mode of carrying outsame. The exclusive rights to all modifications which come within thescope of the appended claims are reserved.

We claim:
 1. A product dispensing system, comprising: a housing having asidewall with at least one surface variation provided thereon; adispensing opening provided on a first side of the sidewall; and amanual actuation button provided on a second different side of thesidewall, wherein a gripping force between about 25 N to about 40 N isutilized to hold the housing within a human hand without additionalsupport.
 2. The product dispensing system of claim 1, wherein thesurface variation includes at least one protrusion and orifice.
 3. Theproduct dispensing system of claim 1 further including a switch thatcontrols an automatic dispensing sequence.
 4. The product dispensingsystem of claim 3, wherein the switch is disposed within an interior ofthe housing.
 5. The product dispensing system of claim 1, wherein thesurface variation is provided on the first side of the sidewall andadjacent the dispensing opening.
 6. The product dispensing system ofclaim 1, wherein the surface variation is provided on the second side ofthe sidewall.
 7. The product dispensing system of claim 1, wherein thesurface variation is provided at least partially on portions of both thefirst and second sides of the sidewall.
 8. A product dispensing system,comprising: a housing having a sidewall with at least one surfacevariation thereon; a manual actuation button extending at leastpartially through the sidewall; and a dispensing opening in thesidewall, wherein both the dispensing opening and the manual actuationbutton are provided within an upper region of the housing.
 9. Theproduct dispensing system of claim 8, wherein the dispensing opening andthe manual actuation button are provided within an upper ⅓ of thehousing.
 10. The product dispensing system of claim 8, wherein at leasta portion of the dispensing opening and a portion of the manualactuation button are radially aligned with one another about alongitudinal axis of the housing.
 11. The product dispensing system ofclaim 8, wherein the manual actuation button is disposed on one side ofthe dispensing device and the dispensing opening is disposed on asecond, opposite side of the dispensing device.
 12. The productdispensing system of claim 8, wherein the sidewall has a greatestdiameter dimension of between about 60 mm to about 100 mm in the upperregion of the housing.
 13. The product dispensing system of claim 8,wherein the sidewall has a greatest diameter dimension of between about80 mm to 110 mm.
 14. A product dispensing system, comprising: a housinghaving a sidewall with at least one surface variation thereon; a manualactuation button extending at least partially through the sidewall; anda dispensing opening in the sidewall, wherein at least one of the manualactuation button and the dispensing orifice has a shape similar to theat least one surface variation.
 15. The product dispensing device ofclaim 14, wherein both the manual actuation button and the dispensingopening are provided with shapes that are similar to the at least onesurface variation.
 16. The product dispensing system of claim 14,wherein a plurality of surface variations are provided that have ashape, which is similar to at least one of the manual actuation buttonand the dispensing orifice.
 17. The product dispensing system of claim16, wherein both the manual actuation button and the dispensing orificeare provided with shapes that are similar to the plurality of surfacevariations.
 18. The product dispensing system of claim 17, wherein thesimilar shapes of the manual actuation button, the dispensing orifice,and the plurality of surface variations comprise a leaf shape.
 19. Theproduct dispensing system of claim 14, wherein the shape of the at leastone surface variation is a different size than the shape of the at leastone of the manual actuation button and the dispensing orifice.
 20. Theproduct dispensing system of claim 14, wherein the shape of the at leastone surface variation and the shape of the at least one manual actuationbutton and dispensing orifice form a pattern, and wherein the shapes arenot identical.